Windsor Artist Eric Faraci Gains Acclaim Creating Custom Art for Professional Athletes
Eric Faraci, a talented artist from LaSalle, Ontario, has transformed his childhood fears of becoming a starving artist into a thriving career painting for some of the biggest names in professional sports. The 30-year-old painter, who initially avoided pursuing art due to concerns about financial stability, now regularly receives commissions from NFL players and other elite athletes, proving that artistic passion can indeed translate into professional success.
From Local Talent to National Recognition
Faraci's journey began with humble origins in Windsor-Essex County, where he grew up just a few streets away from what would become his first major client. Super Bowl champion Luke Willson, formerly of the Seattle Seahawks and now a TSN analyst, commissioned Faraci's work early in the artist's career and currently owns three of his pieces. Willson describes the artwork as "a staple in my homes," frequently traveling with the paintings or shipping them between residences.
"When I first started, I didn't think this is how it would go," Faraci admitted. "But it's just been awesome. What feels cool is these players could get art from anywhere in the world, yet they are choosing to connect with me here in Windsor."
Diverse Commissions for Elite Athletes
Faraci dedicates approximately 60 percent of his working time to creating custom pieces for NFL players, including members of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, Seattle Seahawks, and Atlanta Falcons. His recent projects include work for Tristan Wirfs of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Malcolm Rodriguez from the Detroit Lions, completed in December.
The artist's portfolio showcases remarkable diversity, featuring:
- Paintings of athletes in action during games
- Family portraits capturing personal moments
- Scenes inspired by popular television shows
- Superhero and villain depictions, with The Joker being a frequent request
Willson's Venom-themed commission stands out as particularly memorable. "I'm not even a cartoon guy, I've never seen the movie," Willson confessed. "It was just an idea I had. And it's my favourite thing on planet Earth. I live by myself, so it's a bit strange, but I've got it in my living room."
Expanding Beyond Football Courts
Faraci's reputation has extended beyond the football field to the basketball court. He recently completed a commission for Gradey Dick of the Toronto Raptors and is currently negotiating to create a mural for Philadelphia 76ers center Andre Drummond, who previously played for the Detroit Pistons. This expansion into multiple sports demonstrates the artist's growing influence in the professional athletics community.
Business of Art: Pricing and Local Presence
Each custom commission typically requires about two weeks to complete, with prices ranging from approximately US$5,500 to US$10,000 per piece. For those seeking more accessible options, Faraci's work remains visible throughout Windsor at various locations:
- Behind The GOAT Tap and Eatery in Walkerville
- Inside the Loose Goose Lakeshore establishment
- Outside Wild Child Night Life in downtown Windsor
- Behind an old motel in the 3100 block of Sandwich Street
Reflecting on his unexpected career path, Faraci shared: "When I was younger, I heard that when an artist dies, that's when their art is the most valuable. Sounds like the worst job anyone would ever do, so that's off the list. Then as I got older, I found that I was good at it, I liked it, and I got to meet the coolest people. And then get paid to do it? So it was a thing where it's just so incredible, I can't find something wrong with it."
The Windsor artist's success story serves as an inspiring example of how local talent can achieve national recognition through dedication, skill, and the ability to connect with clients across different professional spheres.
